Ford Switching All 2017 Models to Apple and Google Connectivity

Ford Motor Co. says it will offer Apple and Google smartphone connectivity systems in its entire U.S. vehicle lineup by the end of 2016.

The program will include the company’s Ford and Lincoln cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, crossovers and electrified vehicles, according to the company.

Apple’s CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto will be integrated into Ford’s Sync 3 voice-activated communications and entertainment system. Sync 3 replaces the company’s glitch-plagued MyFord Touch system.

Integrating the Apple and Google systems with Sync 3 allows smartphone owners to link their phones with their cars’ infotainment system to make calls, send and receive messages, display maps and select music while focusing on the job of driving. The software enables users to duplicate their smartphone experience in the vehicle and from one vehicle to another.

CarPlay is compatible with iPhone 5 and later models. Android Auto works with phones using the Android 5.0 or newer operating system. The two platforms can link to almost all smartphones currently available in the U.S. market with the vehicle.

Carmakers have been slowly adopting the two systems, sometimes one at a time, since they became available two years ago. But none until Ford has embraced both systems in all models simultaneously